BATW member and former board member John Compisi passed away, last month, in his hometown of Reno, Nevada. Despite a year-long battle with cancer, Compisi continued to stay active in BATW, helping with administrative chores. The following is his obituary in the Reno Gazette:
John Allen Compisi, born in 1948, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on August 2, 2026. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Linda; daughter Aimie and son in law James Hanson; grandsons Jimmy and Jake; and brothers Anthony, Peter, and Tom.
Raised in North Collins, NY, John attended St. Francis High School and John Carroll University. He and Linda married on Aug 8, 1970.
John served 28 years in the Army, with assignments across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. After retiring, he worked in technology before settling in Sonoma County. He pursued his passions for travel, food, wine, and writing, creating the blog Flights, Bites & Sights and serving as wine judge for several wine competitions.
After moving to Reno in 2021, he co-founded the High Sierra Wine Society. He volunteered at the Somersett Gathering Bar, the VA Guest House and recently became a member of the Reno Elks Club.
John will be remembered for his devotion to Linda and his family, his kindness, integrity, humility and his spirit of adventure.
– BATW sent flowers and a sympathy card to the Compisi family.
I’m so sorry to hear this.
This is the first I’ve heard of John’s passing and am so sorry to hear of it. He was such a lovely person and a true gentleman. He often spoke fondly of his wife during our BATW board meetings, so I would imagine their 50+ year relationship was one of mutual love and respect. I wish all the best to the family.